Batting legend Rahul Dravid is making a return to coaching, choosing the Indian Premier League (IPL) as his platform. After concluding his tenure as head coach of the Indian cricket team with a triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup win, Dravid has reportedly signed a contract with his former IPL franchise, Rajasthan Royals. Dravid previously captained the Royals during the 2012 and 2013 seasons and later served as the team director and mentor in 2014 and 2015.
As per a report, Rahul Dravid has already committed to Rajasthan Royals, discussing strategies for the upcoming season, including player retention ahead of the 2025 auction. Under the leadership of Kumar Sangakkara, who served as both head coach and director of cricket operations, Rajasthan Royals qualified for the playoffs twice in the last three seasons. Dravid will now step in as head coach, with Sangakkara continuing his association with the franchise by overseeing their other teams, such as Paarl Royals in the SA20 and Barbados Royals in the CPL.
Rajasthan Royals, the IPL’s inaugural champions, have not secured an IPL title since their 2008 victory. They came close in 2022 but fell short in the final against Gujarat Titans. The franchise is hopeful that Dravid can end their title drought, just as he led the Indian team to victory earlier this year. Dravid will also reunite with Sanju Samson, who is expected to be retained as the Royals’ captain for another season. RR skipper Sanju Samson first played under Dravid’s guidance for the franchise.
